Barrick Mining has announced a slowdown in the development of its Reko Diq copper-gold project in Balochistan, Pakistan, citing growing security concerns in the region and broader Middle East.

The company said its ongoing review of the project, initially launched on February 5, will now be extended by 12 months from July. This reassessment covers all aspects of the venture, including capital allocation and operational planning, and is expected to impact previously disclosed budgets and timelines.

Reko Diq is considered one of the largest undeveloped copper-gold deposits in the world, making it a critical asset for Barrick’s global portfolio. The company emphasized that the extended review period will allow it to better evaluate risks and refine strategies to safely and efficiently advance the project.

Barrick’s decision highlights the challenges multinational mining companies face in regions with complex security environments, where operational risks can significantly affect investment and delivery schedules.